Freedom Saga 1: Heaven's Light (5 page)

BOOK: Freedom Saga 1: Heaven's Light
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Chapter 7 -
Negotiation Breakdown

 

Shiken Ka slithered
back and forth angrily while waiting for his audience with the High Council.
His guards watched silently while a score of Minan troops kept them in the
waiting room. The door from the hall leading to the interior of the station
opened. Prime Minister Jabril Hopart of Kalaidia came through with a pair of
guards in tow. Shiken met her gaze and nodded as she went to him.

“It’s been
awhile Lord Ka,” she said before saluting.

He returned the
sign, “A long time indeed.”

She put her
hands on her hips. “So they’re waiting you out?”

Shiken laughed.
“If that’s their tactic it’s not working very well. Anger only fuels my defiant
patience.”

“I’d expect that
from you,” she said.

“I may be
speaking in metaphors to ease my mind,” Shiken said. “But from my experience
with you I must be deadly serious.”

Jabril smiled.
“I’m not one for nonsense. Otherwise the people would’ve voted me out long
ago.”

“True indeed,”
he said. The light on the door leading into the main hall lit up and buzzed.
“Looks like it’s time to dispense with the nonsense and get something done.”

“Of course,”
Jabril said.

The pair walked
through the door and onto the platform leading to the center podium. Up and
down the cylindrical chamber representatives of the twenty seven member worlds
waited. Jabril took position next to Shiken Ka and turned on the console in
front of them. Lord Kris floated forward in his gold and black exoskeleton. He
tapped the gavel to call order to the hall.

“As all of you
know, the current situation threatens to tear us apart,” the Mylor said. “The
organization known as Heaven’s Light is primed to begin operation. The question
of how we’re to treat them is far from settled. As of now the Mylor abstain
from any decision. In our eyes, their organization amounts to nothing more than
a private military force under the jurisdiction of the Degan government. Given
that criteria, Heaven’s Light is legal and allowed under current law. Others
would disagree. The Ick-Tckt, Malcovin, and Viken governments have been the
most vocal opponents of this new organization. But in our last discussion on
the situation it was revealed that this disagreement is far greater than simply
three members. It was brought to our attention that half the member worlds are
against the existence of Heaven’s Light. In addition, they have charged Brian
Peterson of conspiracy, piracy, and for violations of the Law of Exclusivity.
These charges are grave and carry the penalty of death if true. That’s why we’ve
called for a rebuttal. The two races most vocal in the defense of Brian
Peterson and Heaven’s Light are the Shandi and Kalaidians, two races who until
eight years ago were at constant war. I now give the floor to Shiken Ka of the
Shandi and Jabril Hopart, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kalaidia.”

Shiken nodded to
defer to Jabril. She inserted a data crystal into the computer before speaking.

“Ten years ago
Kalaidia was on the verge of civil war,” she began. “I served under the grace
of Queen Celestia as the leader of her royal guard. But even with that level of
loyalty, I knew change must occur. The people were oppressed and denied their
rights. Our economy was teetering on the edge of destruction and our military
was cut by a third. But worst of all our population was in an exponential
decline.” She closed her eyes for a moment before opening them once more. “Our
hopes were gone and future as well. That was before he came to us. Brian
Peterson appeared as the Herald and freed us from the past. He gave us the hope
we’d lost. Now, almost a decade later, his dream for Kalaidia has come true.”
She activated the data file and displayed the numbers and charts on the screens
for all the representatives in the chamber. “As you can see, the health of the
Kalaidian people has vastly improved. Our economy is booming, our military
strength has returned thrice fold, and our population has seen growth unknown
to any generation before. But most of all it’s the heart of the people of Kali
that’s changed for the better. Instead of fearing the whip of the tyrannical
noble we stand together. Our fate was destruction and we resisted. The people
of Kali have a future. Even if it means mixing with the blood of others it will
be ours. For it is not the blood in the veins or the dirt on the planet that
make a people, but the people themselves. You accuse Brian Peterson of
conspiracy, of piracy, and of violations of your precious exclusivity. I attest
these charges as false based on not the character of the man, but his actions.
That is my statement,” she said.

The murmurs in
the hall began roiling when Shiken Ka slammed his fist on the podium.

“For a hundred
years we warred,” Shiken said. “And it seemed there was no end to the bloodshed.
Even I had lost all hope of a peace with the people of Kalaidia. My mind was
made; if peace couldn’t be attained then power was the only alternative. That’s
what I believed. Everything changed the day I met Brian Peterson in the deserts
of Kalmar. He was alone, utterly exhausted and hopelessly outnumbered. He
fought with the strength of a thousand that day. When I battled him, he was
weak and tired with no aid from his armor. And though his blade was slow and
cumbersome he matched me in every way. His loss that day was not due to my
skill but to the honor in his heart. Victory was less important than his friend
and fellow soldier, Captain Kivi of the Raulno. It was then my mind began
changing. His values, his thoughts rippled across mine and all the Shandi
serving under me. In less than a week our lives were changed forever. Although
he appeared Kalaidian he was not. His heart is Terran. He showed us that we
could work together instead of fighting. He found the similar where others
found difference. The heart of a Shandi and Kalaidian are close. We all feel
fear, hate, sadness, joy, and pride. And though our beliefs are different and
bodies radically so, our hearts are the same. Brian brought us a peace no one
ever thought possible. Even the Confederation failed to seal a pact between our
peoples. And though there are disagreements between us, war will never again
separate us. You cling to the belief that Terrans are dangerous. You claim what
he seeks is evil. But I question your knowledge of the man. Brian is not simply
a Terran, nor is he simply the commander on a Kalaidian starship. He’s much
more than what you see. To know Brian you must see past the body and find his
heart, because that is what gives him strength. His dream is neither war nor
conquest. His dream is of a world where war is scarce and prosperity reigns.
Heaven’s Light is not his will. It’s the will of the people of Alden. That is
my statement,” Shiken said to end his speech.

Murmurs filled
the grand hall as the representatives began arguing amongst themselves once
more. Shiken Ka and Jabril stood their ground while the crowd fought each other
verbally.

“I think reason
is lost to them,” Jabril said.

“I agree,”
Shiken said.

Lord Kris tried
restoring order to the chamber as the pair at center stage stormed out. Few
within the chamber took notice as the vitriol grew with each passing moment.
Once outside the chamber the door closed behind them.

“Did we do any
good by coming?” Jabril asked.

Shiken nodded.
“Our feelings are not alone in this matter. It’s evident more than half of
those in that room wish for his success. Just because one shouts louder doesn’t
make them right. Many are stuck in silence because they fear retribution.”

“I hate to say
this Lord Ka, but you’re right,” Jabril said. She saluted him once more. “I
hope strength follows your every moment.”

He saluted back.
“And may Kali watch over you and your people.”

Jabril smiled
before leaving with her guards. Shiken Ka turned to the Minan soldiers
surrounding him and his two guards.

“Are we allowed
to leave yet?” he asked.

The lead officer
amongst the guards stepped forward. “You’re allowed to leave at any time.”

“Thank you,”
Shiken said before heading through the massive maze of hallways.

“What are we
going to do my lord?” one of his guards asked.

Shiken tapped
the blade on his back. “We’ll do everything in our power to ensure light shines
once more upon the peoples of Alden.”

 

* *
*

 

Myden silently
watched the High Council argue for hours. He paced back and forth on his small
saucer shaped ship before sitting down to meditate.

Their thoughts
are so dissonant at the moment. It would be a miracle if one could bring them
together on anything right now.

Lord Jita
floated forward from the shadows. “To think the sojourners brought back all the
evidence needed to unify them. It’s a pity they can’t see their own
foolishness.”

Myden sighed.
“Long ago we swore to see the plan through old friend.”

“True General
Myden,” Jita said. “But hasn’t it already been changed?”

Myden stood
silent for a moment. “The Warrior wasn’t supposed to survive the sojourn.
That’s what the plan originally contained. But the Maiden of Life awakened sooner
than anticipated.”

“Does Brian know
about this?” Jita asked.

Myden closed his
eyes, “Most likely, if not if fact then by intuition. The Machine God has
touched his mind and is working at his sanity. I fear the darkness he hates will
embrace him wholly.”

“And what if it
does?”

Myden opened his
eyes and held forth his telepathic staff. “Then I will be the one to stop him.”

“You’ll be hated
for eternity,” Jita warned.

“I don’t care!”
Myden shouted. “Light must shine upon this galaxy once more lest the darkness
take it all. Even if they curse my name for a thousand years I will see the
plan through. It’s all I live for now.”

Jita turned to
leave. “Your conviction is enough Myden. The Mylor stand with you.”

 

Chapter 8 -
Departure Celebration

 

The crew of the
Avoni gathered in the mess hall with Seles and Mira near the stage. Meldi and
Myli sat next to Seles, while Celi and the medical staff sat next to Mira. The
others filed in with a mix of joy and sadness as they knew life on the Avoni
would be changed forever. When everyone was situated Celi stood and took center
stage.

“We come today
to pay our respects and gratitude for the service of lieutenant Seles and lieutenant
Mira,” she said. “They’ve served faithfully onboard this ship for over a decade
and proven their worth in battle. But most of all, they’ve shown us what we can
aspire to.” She looked at Seles, “I can’t tell you how many times you led us to
victory. Your skill as a pilot is matched only by your intensity. We look
forward to the day when we hear you sing with all your heart. Hopefully, that
day will be soon.” She looked at Mira, “I had my doubts when I first met you.
You didn’t seem like a medical officer at the time, but over the years you’ve
proven me wrong. Your skill in the healing arts is only surpassed by your
ability in music. To hear you sing is to hear Kali herself. Thank you for the
time you’ve spared our souls and given us hope.”

She stepped off
the stage and sat down with the others. Seles and Mira looked at each other for
a moment before Seles nodded and went first. She closed her eyes and took a
deep breath before speaking.

“The Avoni has
been my home for a long time,” she said. “I know life is a series of meetings
and partings but I’m having a hard time leaving you. You’ve given me so much.
You’ve given me so many memories. I won’t forget any of you. And even though
I’ll live at a distance I’ll always keep in touch.” She looked at Meldi and
Myli, “I know the two of you will keep the Avoni flying. You survived the
sojourn where many were lost. The only regret in my life is I wasn’t there for
you. It won’t happen again, that I promise.” She turned to the rest of the
crew, “Thank you for giving me this chance. I won’t ever forget the kindness
you’ve shown me.” Tears welled in her eyes as she tried composing herself.
“Thank you.” Seles wiped away the tears as she stepped down and took her seat.

Mira grasped her
hand before standing up. “That was beautiful.” She took her place on the stage
while pacing the edges. “It’s odd knowing this will be my last time on this
stage in front of you.” She noticed Zae leading against the wall in the back of
the mess hall. “But I’m not leaving you without music. In the last few years
we’ve come to an understanding on this ship. It’s Zae’s turn to take over. Her
talent is as good as mine. I’m glad we pushed each other over the years.” Zae
nodded with a smile. Mira looked to Celi, “I’ve learned so much from you. When
I first studied medicine I didn’t know where it would take me. Now I see the
path for what it is. It’s time I take care of a crew on another ship. It’s time
I leave the Avoni to you and trust you’ll carry on. Thanks for being a great
friend and the best teacher I could’ve ever learned under.” She looked to the
rest of the crew, “I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart. Your cheers
kept me going. I’ll treasure my time on the Avoni for the rest of my life.
Thank you.”

Mira bowed
before stepping off the stage. The others in the hall stood and raised a glass
to their departing shipmates. They cheered as they tapped their drinks. The
formality fled the room as everyone milled about and talked about the future of
the Avoni. Seles stood next to Mira and Celi.

“Your speech was
just as beautiful,” Seles said.

Mira smiled.
“I’m going to miss this place.”

“It’s time you
go out on your own,” Celi said. “Your skill is equal to mine.”

“Thanks,” Mira
said.

Celi turned to
Seles. “How goes the command training?”

Seles shook her
head. “It’s a lot to absorb. Thankfully the plan is for me to lead the mobile
suits most of the time. But for the moment I’ll try to do my best with what
I’ve learned.”

Zae came over to
them and put a hand on Seles’s shoulder. “You’re uncertainty is due to a lack
of experience. Don’t worry Seles; you have a natural talent in inspiring
others.”

“I’m glad to
hear you say that,” Seles said.

Celi sighed. “I
guess we have to get back to our duties.”

Zae shook her
head. “No rest for the command staff.” She looked at Seles and Mira once more.
“Take care you two. Hopefully we won’t lose touch with each other.”

“We won’t,” Mira
said.

“That won’t
happen,” Seles said.

Celi and Zae
saluted the pair before leaving.

“How did Jesela
get out of this?” Seles asked.

Mira shrugged. “She
technically left a while ago. That was her excuse.”

Seles sipped the
wine. “Everything changes tomorrow.”

“Everything
indeed,” Mira echoed.

 

* *
*

 

The command
center bustled with activity as Grigon, Valis, Kivi, Brian, and El Kar stood
around the center table. They watched a real time image of the Confederation
forces closing the areas of Dega Jul around the Kein estate.

“It seems
they’re determined to catch my grandmother,” Valis said. “There’s no way she
can hold out there.”

“Then we’ll have
to go get her,” Kivi said.

“All of us?” El
Kar asked.

Valis looked at
Brian as he stared at the space images around their base. “What is it?”

“They’re
coming,” he said.

“How do you
know?” El Kar asked.

Brian turned and
stared at the Shandi. “I can’t say for sure. But I know something is shifting
the wave patterns.”

Valis looked at
the space Brian was staring at. “Kivi, El Kar, prep your ships for launch,” she
said as she turned back. “The Avoni and Vomada are more than enough to defend
the base if need be.”

“Where should we
go after retrieving her?” Kivi asked.

“The Kalmar
system,” Valis said. “Shiken Ka has promised us protection if we need it.”

“On his honor
and word,” El Kar said. “The Confederation will have a tough time sending ships
into his territory.”

Kivi tapped the
swords on her belt. “Let’s go.”

She and the Shandi
captain took their leave.

“Are you sure
you can trust me?” Brian asked.

“Rarely have
your instincts been wrong,” she said. “Are you alright?” she asked as she took
his hand. Brian snapped out of his trance.

“I’m seeing
things Valis,” he said. “Things that would drive others mad. I’m worried I
won’t be able to handle things soon.”

“We’ll find a
way,” she said. “You have a ship to captain and a cause to fight for. The
choice of giving up long ago left you.”

Brian smiled.
“Thanks.”

“I don’t mean to
interrupt the moment,” Grigon said, “But our sensors are detecting a fleet of
ships inside the perimeter.”

“Your assessment
was correct,” Valis said.

“I hate being
right,” he said.

 

* *
*

 

The celebration
in the mess hall of the Avoni continued as Seles and Mira stood together near
the stage. Meldi and Myli joined them.

“Looks like you
finally have command,” Seles said to her former subordinates.

“Not a position
one longs for,” Meldi said.

“If only the pay
were worth the effort,” Myli added.

“Promise me
you’ll protect this ship,” Seles said.

“I promise,”
Meldi said.

“As do I,” Myli
said.

The two saluted.
“We have to take our leave now,” Meldi said. “Take care you two.”

“We will,” Seles
said.

“Take care,”
Mira said.

“We will,” Myli
said as they left.

As time moved
more and more of the crew came over and congratulated them before wishing them
well and leaving. Once the last group of the medical staff said goodbye the
pair were left alone in the room.

“Well, it looks
like we’ve been forgotten,” Mira said.

“Forgotten and
abandoned,” Seles said.

“I forgot the
second part,” Mira said. A moment of silence passed. “Things will never be the
same.”

“No they won’t,”
Seles said. “Since Brian won’t be joining us for a while it’s up to us to get
the job done.”

“I’ll do my best
to help,” Mira said.

“I know you
will,” Seles said. “Are you up for one more tour of the ship?”

“Sure, let’s
have a look just to make sure we’re leaving things in order,” Mira said. “We
can’t be sure our subordinates have figured it out yet.”

“Very true,” Seles
said before they laughed together.

They walked
together and fought tears of happiness from their memories on the Avoni.

 

BOOK: Freedom Saga 1: Heaven's Light
3.48Mb size Format: txt, pdf, ePub
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